Shogatsu
SeasonalKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
CrowdedKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
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Japanese New Year celebrations with traditional food, games, and shrine visits.
Shogatsu is the most important holiday in Japan, celebrated nationwide from January 1 to 3. Millions visit shrines and temples for hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year) to pray for good fortune. Meiji Jingu in Tokyo is the most visited, welcoming over 3 million visitors during the three-day period. Traditions include eating osechi ryori, ozoni soup, and receiving otoshidama.
Shogatsu takes place from 2026-01-01 to 2026-01-03.
Shogatsu is held at Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo, Japan.
Yes, Shogatsu is free to attend.
The admission fee for Shogatsu is ¥0.
The crowd level at Shogatsu is typically high.
Yes, Shogatsu is held annually.
Shogatsu is a seasonal festival in Japan.
Highlights of Shogatsu include: Hatsumode first shrine visit with millions of worshippers; Traditional osechi ryori New Year cuisine and ozoni soup; Drawing omikuji fortune slips and purchasing new omamori charms.
Tips for Shogatsu: Expect extremely long waits (2-4 hours) at popular shrines on January 1. Visit on January 2 or 3 for shorter lines. Dress warmly and bring cash for offerings and food stalls. Many shops and restaurants close during this period..
Shogatsu welcomes international visitors. It is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
Access information for Shogatsu: 1-minute walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda/Fukutoshin Line) or Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line).
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tips: Expect extremely long waits (2-4 hours) at popular shrines on January 1. Visit on January 2 or 3 for shorter lines. Dress warmly and bring cash for offerings and food stalls. Many shops and restaurants close during this period..
Photography is generally welcome at Shogatsu. Check specific rules at the venue.
Shogatsu is a family-friendly festival that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Festival food stalls (yatai) at Shogatsu typically serve popular Japanese street food including yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori. Some festivals feature regional specialties.
Yes, wearing a yukata (casual kimono) is very common and encouraged at Shogatsu. Many visitors rent yukata nearby.
Parking can be limited during Shogatsu. Public transportation is recommended. Check access details: 1-minute walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda/Fukutoshin Line) or Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line).
Hatsumode first shrine visit with millions of worshippers; Traditional osechi ryori New Year cuisine and ozoni soup; Drawing omikuji fortune slips and purchasing new omamori charms
1-minute walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda/Fukutoshin Line) or Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
Expect extremely long waits (2-4 hours) at popular shrines on January 1. Visit on January 2 or 3 for shorter lines. Dress warmly and bring cash for offerings and food stalls. Many shops and restaurants close during this period.
📍 Meiji Jingu Shrine